The Nelson Reservoir, a feature of the Milk River Project, is located 19 miles northeast of Malta, Montana provides offstream storage for irrigation of Malta Division lands in the Saco and Hinsdale area. This reservoir, with 4,320 water surface acres, 7,702 land acres and 30 miles of shoreline, offers good fishing for
Maybe — confirm before you go.
Reclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact 406-759-5077 · GPWebmaster@usbr.go
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Nelson Reservoir — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — Reclamation honors the pass at only a handful of sites — confirm before you rely on it here. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Can you fish at Nelson Reservoir?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Nelson Reservoir. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you camp at Nelson Reservoir?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include West Nelson Road. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Depends Is hunting allowed?
Yes — hunting is permitted here in season, with the required state license and tags. Check seasons and unit rules.
Depends Is there winter recreation?
Yes — snow and winter activities are available seasonally. Check conditions and closures before you head out.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Nearby sites
USFWS Mountain-Prairie / CC BY 2.0 · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Hewitt Lake National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
Bowdoin National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.